Bendigo TAFE: Cooking for Change & Giving Back
The amazing thing about this story? Bendigo TAFE is truly invested in developing essential food skills, building confidence in the kitchen, and giving back to the community
This year, Bendigo TAFE students have involved their Young Parents Program, Victorian Pathways Certificate (VPC), and Year 11 numeracy students in our Cooking for Change program, participating in six cooking sessions, creating opportunities to learn, connect, and contribute.
Students cooked a variety of delicious dishes, including:
- Chilli con Carne
- Golden Turmeric Rice with Vegetable Chilli
- Apple & Pear Crumble
- Apple Muffins & Jam Doughnut Mini Muffins
- Chicken Curry with Potato & Pumpkin
- Pasta Bolognese & Pasta with Vegetable Sauce
- Pappadams, Cauliflower & Onion Pakoras, Coriander Raita, and Salad
From these sessions, 173 meals were donated to Bendigo Foodshare to support people doing it tough, and 249 meals were shared with other Bendigo TAFE students for a gold coin donation — turning learning into real community impact – with funds raised purchasing food for the TAFE breakfast program.
One standout moment? For one student, spending time in the TAFE commercial kitchen and using the industrial dishwasher wasn't just fun — it was a lightbulb moment. They realised this hands-on experience could open doors to employment in hospitality. That's the power of practical learning: building confidence and sparking career pathways.
We're so proud of this partnership and can't wait to see it grow next year.
Want to get involved? Schools and training providers can connect with Bendigo Foodshare to create hands-on learning experiences that make a difference.
Cooking for Change is proudly supported by Bendigo Community Health Services
City of Greater Bendigo; Bendigo City of Gastronomy; BUFS Pharmacy
